Both organizations were undergoing transitions. Livemocha was sold to Rosetta Stone in April and former WTIA Chief Executive Susan Sigl resigned in May, ending a three-year run.

“I am eager to help our members collaborate to not only build great companies but also a community and ecosystem that will grow economic and educational opportunities for future generations,” Schutzler said in the WTIA’s announcement today.

The trade association and lobbying organization was started as the Washington Software Alliance in 1984 and became the WTIA in 2009, to broaden its reach to other tech companies. It now has more than 500 members, which together employ more than 100,000 people in the state.

Brier Dudley offers a critical look at technology and business issues affecting the Northwest. Send tips or comments to bdudley@seattletimes.com. His column runs Monday, and his commentary appears here all week.